"I feel seen, heard, and accepted"
Ever had something remind you things are headed in the right direction? Amidst some happy tears, Alyssa’s instagram post did just that.
For those not familiar with theatrical lingo many industry terms can seem fairly odd. Downstage means the front of the stage, and upstage means further away from the audience. Proscenium seating is when all audience are in rows facing the stage, while thrust seating (like with Murder Ballad) surrounds the stage on three sides.
Another term that appears quite fanciful is “Sitzprobe.” Although it may sound like some alien tool used against humankind, it is actually a musical term for the first time performers sings through the show with the orchestra or band. In order to be heard over the live band of Murder Ballad, the cast put on their microphones for the first time. To the delight of the Prima team, this Instagram post from performer Alyssa Wray was seen after sitzprobe.
“I got my first skin colored mic today. I’ve done lots of shows, and I’ve worn lots of mics, but today was different. I got one that matched my skin. As I look at myself wearing this mic that, for the first time, blends in perfectly with my face, my heart just feels so full. I. feel seen, heard, and accepted in all my blackness. I’m most excited for the day when people of color don’t have to be excited that they finally feel seen, heard, and accepted. I’m excited because this small gesture represents a step in the right direction for every non white human being. I’m a small bit more joyful than normal, walking on stage with my brown mic, in my brown skin today. (love prima theatre)”
Because of her Americal idol stardom, nearly 70,000 social media followers of Alyssa read of your impact — inspired by our collective committment to invigorate lives through fresh theatrical experiences. It’s such a beautiful thing to see people fully alive, sharing in experiences that make them feel welcomed, loved, enriched, and energized. Thank you for being a part of cultivating that!
I hope you’ll take the opportunity to experience Alyssa’s jaw-dropping vocals in-person at Murder Ballad, and as you do, that you can take a moment to reflect on the beauty you were a part of creating in her life.